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Matthew Smith, a Christian singer-songwriter, proves old and new styles can mix together.

Within Christianity, musical styles offer much diversity. From African-American spirituals to Gregorian chants, the music of Christianity spans the spectrum of possibility. A common juxtaposition highlights the differences between traditional songs of praise and the pop-influenced world of contemporary Christian music.

Smith brings those genres together in a synthesis that proves tradition and innovation can coexist and thrive. He takes lyrics from centuries-old hymns and puts them to brand-new music of his own composition.

“I was introduced to these hymns in college,” Smith said, referring to his studies at Belmont University in Nashville, Tenn. “I was captivated by the music and what the hymns had to say. One night, I sat down with my guitar and composed some new melodies for some hymns.”

One example of such work is “You Are the Light,” the first track on Smith’s latest release, “Watch the Rising Day.” The text was written by the Anglican hymnist Charles Wesley.

“It’s about living in tension between the hardships that we endure and keeping faith,” Smith said. “We cling to the hope that Jesus was who he said he was and keeps his promise to the world.”

Smith said the universality of the themes presented in the lyrics has helped people find his music accessible.

“Despite a lot of differences in people all over, these hymns are a unifying force,” he said.

Smith’s music combines folk and rock styles in a mix common among singer-songwriters.

Amarillo audiences will get a chance to see Smith perform Sunday evening. Trinity Baptist Church, 1601 W. Interstate 40, will host Smith in a free concert at 6 p.m. Sunday. Smith will also perform during both the 8:20 and 10:50 a.m. services Sunday.